A Comparative Study of Delhi's Culinary Delights vs Mumbai’s Vegetarian Elegance

India is a land of rich and diverse cuisines, each region boasting its unique flavors and specialties. Two major cities, Delhi and Mumbai, stand out in the culinary map of India, each offering distinctive dining experiences. While Delhi is known for its non-vegetarian options and street food, Mumbai excels in vegetarian cuisine. In this article, we explore the notable differences between Delhi's and Mumbai's food offerings, focusing on vegetarian options due to the author's preference. This comparison is based on the author's personal experiences from living and working in all major parts of India, spanning from Indore to Mumbai.

Delhi's Food Scene: A Non-Veg Dominant Cuisine

Delhi's food landscape is almost wholly non-vegetarian, with exceptions for pure vegetarians. However, these vegetarians need to be cautious, as the city predominantly prefers saltless and chili-less dishes. When visiting a dhaba in Delhi for Chana Masala, the author found that the dish was served almost without salt and chillies. It was only accompanied by achhar.

Some of Delhi's regular and popular breakfast dishes include Chhola Bhatura and Kulchha. However, Kachori is not up to par with the standards set by Indore, where it includes moong dal and is filled either with sattoo or mixed with aaloo ki sabji. Samosa and paani puri are found throughout the city.

Mumbai's Vegetarian Excellence

Mumbai takes the lead in vegetarian cuisine, offering a wide variety of options that are both delicious and numerous. The author notes that non-vegetarians might find it slightly less exciting compared to Delhi, but vegetarians will find a bountiful array of dishes.

Vada Pav, a classic Mumbai street food, is a must-try. It is both popular and superb. Paav Bhaji, another iconic dish, wins the competition in terms of flavor and texture. Additionally, Mumbai provides an abundance of South Indian foods like Dosa and Idli, which are all superb.

What to Try and What to Avoid in Delhi

Do's:

Seekh kebabs in Old Delhi, near Jama Masjid, for an authentic experience. Explore different sweet dishes nearby Al Jawahar in Old Delhi. Enjoy Chole bhature at Bikaner or Haldirams. Sample delicious mutton or chicken dishes at Karims or Al Jawahar. Indulge in lassi at Bikaner Outlets.

Don't:

Avoid biryanis at Karims, which are overhyped. Never try momos; this is a big NO-NO. Avoid Nihari at the famous “Nihariwala” in Old Delhi as it might be too much for your taste.

These insights, shared by someone who has lived in major parts of India, offer a comprehensive comparison between Delhi's and Mumbai's food scenes, with a focus on vegetarian options. Whether you're a lover of non-vegetarian dishes or prefer the simplicity and variety of Mumbai's vegetarian options, both cities have something to offer to satisfy your palate.